KATH Oncology Department Announces Indefinite Strike Over Equipment Failures

The management of the Oncology Department at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi has declared an indefinite strike, set to commence on Monday, June 24, 2024. This decision comes in response to the persistent and severe breakdown of essential medical equipment, which has severely hampered their ability to provide critical cancer care services.

In a press conference held yesterday, Dr. Michael Osei, the head of the Oncology Department, outlined the dire situation facing the unit. He emphasized that the breakdown of vital equipment, including radiation therapy machines and chemotherapy infusion pumps, has left them unable to deliver timely and effective treatment to patients. Dr. Osei noted that these issues have been ongoing for several months, despite repeated appeals to hospital administration and government health authorities for urgent repairs and replacements.

“The lives of our patients are at significant risk due to these equipment failures. Our ability to diagnose, treat, and monitor cancer patients has been compromised, leading to delayed treatments and, in some cases, deterioration of patients' conditions. We cannot, in good conscience, continue to operate under these circumstances,” Dr. Osei stated.

Patients and their families have expressed deep concern and frustration over the impending strike. Many have reported having to travel long distances to receive care at KATH, only to be told that the necessary equipment is not functioning. For some, the strike represents a potentially devastating interruption in their treatment regimen.

The decision to strike has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) and other health professionals. In a statement, the GMA highlighted the broader implications of the equipment failures, calling for immediate intervention from the Ministry of Health. “The situation at KATH is a stark reminder of the critical need for investment in our healthcare infrastructure. We urge the government to prioritize the repair and replacement of medical equipment across the country to prevent such crises,” the statement read.

In response, the Ministry of Health has assured the public that efforts are underway to address the equipment issues at KATH. A spokesperson for the ministry indicated that a team of technicians has been dispatched to assess the situation and expedite repairs. However, Dr. Osei and his team remain skeptical, noting that previous promises have not led to substantial improvements.

As the strike date approaches, the oncology department at KATH is urging patients to seek alternative treatment options and to stay informed about developments. The hospital administration is also exploring temporary partnerships with other medical facilities to mitigate the impact on patient care.

This strike underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms and investment in Ghana's healthcare infrastructure to ensure that such critical services are not disrupted in the future.